MINSK, 3 December (BelTA) – Western diplomats in Belarus should not hurry up and pack their suitcases expecting their banishment from the country due to the sanctions being enforced against Belarus. Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko made the statement at a government conference held on 3 December to discuss the country's social and economic development, BelTA has learned.
Aleksandr Lukashenko said: “We've already noticed, it's been 24 hours (since they wanted to enforce these sanctions), some embassies are already packing their suitcases saying that the president will make the decision and they will be kicked out of the country tomorrow. I have to calm them down: we are not going to take away suitcases and what's inside the suitcases from anyone.”
“We are not going to kick out anyone. We are going to do it in a civilized way in compliance with international law. This is why I want you to hear me: those, who are packing their suitcases, should calm down and put their suitcases back. If we declare you persona non grata, you will have time to take these suitcases and leave. Although it is your right,” the Belarusian leader added.
